GMC Canyon vs GMC Sierra
For 2005–2021 models, the GMC Sierra has 22.4 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 28.0 for the GMC Canyon. Below: what each one’s owners report most, when it shows up, and what it costs to fix.
Both rates cover the same model years (2005–2021), counting each complaint once and dividing by US sales, so the more popular vehicle isn’t penalized for being popular. Years too new to judge are left out. How this is calculated.
GMC Canyon
28.0 complaints per 10,000 sold
1.2× the GMC Sierra’s rate
- Complaints
- 969
- Sold
- 346,641
- Recall campaigns
- 18
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2015–2016. Fewest: 2010 and 2019–2021. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 51,012 mi
-
Electric power steering motor and module
Typically around 63,432 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Power steering pump, rack and lines
Typically around 69,350 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Wiring harness, grounds and connectors
Typically around 50,000 mi
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 13,000 mi
GMC Sierra
22.4 complaints per 10,000 sold
20% fewer than the GMC Canyon
- Complaints
- 6,701
- Sold
- 2,993,886
- Recall campaigns
- 75
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 0
Most complaints: 2008 and 2015. Fewest: 2005–2006 and 2012. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Internal engine (bearings, pistons, rings)
Typically around 79,000 mi
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 72,000 mi
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 51,000 mi
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 54,401 mi
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 29,000 mi
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the GMC Canyon or the GMC Sierra?
For 2005–2021 models, the GMC Sierra has 22.4 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the GMC Canyon has 28.0, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the GMC Canyon?
The most-reported problem on the GMC Canyon is body control and other modules, typically around 51,012 miles.
What is the most common problem on the GMC Sierra?
The most-reported problem on the GMC Sierra is internal engine (bearings, pistons, rings), typically around 79,000 miles.
Which GMC Canyon and GMC Sierra years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: GMC Canyon: 2015–2016; GMC Sierra: 2008 and 2015.
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, recalls and investigations; US sales from public industry figures; repair costs from book labor hours and parts pricing at national rates. Complaints are self-reported and not independently verified. Problem lists cover each vehicle’s full history. This is not a recommendation to buy or avoid either vehicle.